JERSEY CITY, N.J. November 6, 2025 — James Solomon, who placed first in the Jersey City mayoral race and advanced to a runoff against former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey, issued a statement on Wednesday challenging McGreevey to six debates, including at least two televised, ahead of the December 2 runoff election. “The contrast in this race could not be clearer: while I am trying to bring Jersey City into a more affordable future, Jim McGreevey is trying to take it back to a corrupt past that will just make it more unaffordable and with more expensive rents. Jim McGreevey had his shot and failed — we are not going to go backwards in Jersey City,” Solomon said.
“Sadly, during the general election, Jim McGreevey repeatedly turned down debates because he did not want to be called out for his MAGA megadonors like the Kushner family, his corruption, or his lack of vision for an affordable future for Jersey City. In a one-on-one runoff, that’s just not going to fly, because the voters in Jersey City deserve better. We should have one in each Ward,” he added.
“It’s vital that Jersey City voters get to see these competing visions, which is why today I am calling on Jim McGreevey to agree to six debates, with at least two televised debates, so we can discuss our very different visions for the city,” Solomon emphasized. “To the TV networks in the market, I will show up anywhere, any time, and on any network to debate — it’s up to Jim to agree,” he concluded.
MCGREEVEY: “READY TO DEBATE, READY TO DELIVER FOR JERSEY CITY FAMILIES”
Former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey accepted Councilman James Solomon’s challenge to six debates in the Jersey City mayoral runoff, issuing a statement Wednesday expressing his readiness to face Solomon “in every ward, neighborhood, and corner of the city.” “I would like to thank every candidate who ran for mayor, including Bill O’Dea, Joyce Watterman, Mussab Ali, Christina Freeman, and Kalki Jayne-Rose, as well as all those who sought council seats. Thank you for your commitment, energy, and time you dedicated to making Jersey City a better place,” McGreevey said.
“I also want to thank every voter for the strong turnout that reflects our shared belief in democracy and the importance of healthy change, and extend my congratulations to Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill on her election as our next Governor,” he added. “I welcome the opportunity to debate Councilman Solomon in every ward, neighborhood, and corner of Jersey City. These debates belong to our community. Families deserve to hear from those who have the experience, the record, and a real plan to make this city more affordable, safer, and fairer for everyone,” McGreevey noted.
“These debates are more than a forum; they are a test of leadership. They offer the chance to show not just ideas, but the ability to deliver. I am aware of the challenges our neighbors face. I’ve managed municipal and state budgets, built partnerships that get results, and led programs that change lives. This is about more than words on a stage; it’s about who can turn plans into progress, who has the discipline to make government work, and who’s truly ready to lead Jersey City forward,” he emphasized.
“James Solomon has been on the City Council for eight years. In that time, he hasn’t built a single unit of affordable housing, provided one person with the right to counsel, or addressed the basic problems that are squeezing working families. Jersey City deserves more than talk,” he said.
“I’ve spent my life achieving results, managing budgets, and expanding reentry programs that have helped thousands find employment. I’ve also collaborated with churches, nonprofits, and local businesses to support residents getting back on their feet. That’s what authentic leadership looks like: not pointing fingers, but rolling up your sleeves and delivering,” McGreevey stated. “I’ll gladly debate anywhere, in schools, libraries, churches, or community centers, so residents themselves can listen, judge, and decide who has the plan and experience to move this city forward,” he continued.
“This election isn’t about the past. It’s about stabilizing taxes and rents in Jersey City, building real affordable housing, investing in neighborhood resources, and giving every child a fair chance at a better education. I’m ready to debate, prepared to work, and honored to keep fighting for the people of Jersey City,” McGreevey concluded.
